March 14, 2025 | By FlashpointNews Team
Hamas announced on Friday its agreement to release one living hostage, US-Israeli soldier Edan Alexander, and the bodies of four slain dual US-Israeli citizens. However, Israel has slammed the move as “psychological warfare,” accusing Hamas of rejecting a broader US-backed proposal that would have secured the release of more hostages and extended the ceasefire.
The Deal on the Table
The US proposal, mediated by special envoy Steve Witkoff, would have seen:
- 10 Living Hostages Released Immediately: Including Edan Alexander.
- Ceasefire Extension: Through the end of Passover.
- Full Hostage Release: If an agreement on ending the war was reached.
Israel accepted the proposal, but Hamas rejected it, opting instead for a partial release.
Hamas’s Announcement
Hamas stated it would release:
- Edan Alexander: A 20-year-old dual US-Israeli citizen and Golani soldier captured on October 7, 2023.
- Four Slain Hostages: Dual US-Israeli citizens Judith Weinstein, Gadi Haggai, Omer Neutra, and Itay Chen.
The terror group did not provide a timeline for the release, nor did it commit to broader negotiations.
Israel’s Response
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office condemned Hamas’s decision, calling it a “manipulation” tactic aimed at driving a wedge between Israel and the US.
- Psychological Warfare: Israel accused Hamas of using the partial release to pressure Jerusalem and Washington.
- Next Steps: Netanyahu will convene top aides and senior ministers on Saturday night to decide on Israel’s response.
The Hostages’ Plight
Edan Alexander, the sole living US-Israeli hostage, appeared gaunt in a Hamas propaganda video released in November 2024. In the video, he pleaded for his release, addressing both the Israeli government and the incoming Trump administration.
- Edan’s Background: Born in Tel Aviv, raised in New Jersey, and serving as a lone soldier in the Golani Brigade.
- Families’ Urgency: The Hostages and Missing Families Forum urged Netanyahu to act immediately, citing the principle of Pikuah Nefesh (saving lives) in Jewish law.
The Broader Context
Hamas’s partial release appears to be an attempt to:
- Divide Israel and the US: By focusing on American hostages, Hamas hopes to pressure Washington into pushing Israel for concessions.
- Avoid Broader Negotiations: The terror group has refused to engage in substantive talks on the second phase of the current deal, which includes a permanent ceasefire and full IDF withdrawal from Gaza.
What Happens Next?
- Negotiators Return: Israeli negotiators in Doha will return home for consultations.
- Ministerial Meeting: Netanyahu will meet with senior ministers on Saturday night to decide Israel’s next steps.
- US Involvement: The Biden administration continues to push for a comprehensive deal, but Hamas’s refusal complicates efforts.
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